Electric Zoo Concertgoers Cause Chaos as Venue Reaches Capacity
By David Propper | September 3, 2023 | 11:55pm
Sunday’s Electric Zoo concert took a turn for the worse when the venue on Randall’s Island unexpectedly reached capacity, leaving ticket holders turned away and causing chaos among attendees.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), the concert organizers shared the unfortunate news, stating, “It is with deep regret that we need to inform you that due to the challenges caused by Friday cancellation, we have reached our venue’s capacity earlier than anticipated for today, Sunday. For the safety and well-being of everyone on site, we will not be admitting any additional attendees today.”
Upon hearing this announcement, concertgoers reportedly rushed the gate in an attempt to gain entry. One attendee, 22-year-old Jeff Wang, expressed his frustration, saying, “I’m never coming back. Worse experience of my life.”
Social media footage captured the chaotic scene, showing droves of young adults racing towards the entrance. Eileen Tayam, another concertgoer, revealed that her 32-year-old sister was unable to enter and ultimately decided to go home as crowds forced their way forward.
Security guards at the event condemned the organizers for their poor planning, with one stating, “Every single staff that is at Ezoo is mad at Ezoo. Why would you oversell tickets.”
Fortunately, no arrests have been reported by the NYPD.
The Electric Zoo festival, which featured some of the biggest names in EDM, announced that all ticket holders who were unable to enter would receive a full refund. The festival’s start was already marred by the cancellation of Friday’s festivities due to the main stage not being constructed on time.
Despite the setbacks, the organizers expressed optimism for the remaining days of the festival, tweeting, “On a brighter note, Saturday and Sunday are set to be truly magical.”
As disappointed concertgoers await their refunds, the Electric Zoo organizers will undoubtedly be reflecting on the planning and logistical issues that led to Sunday’s chaotic scene.